Bloated Javascript in Dreamweaver starter templates

[Gail5ECD]

Since Dreamweaver uses responsive frameworks for some of the modern templates, it would be great to see the ability to make sure the corresponding javascript files are optimised for the layouts used.

It does seem the javascript files are added in their entirity with no ability to pull parts that are not used.

Is this an indication that Dreamweaver architects do not know how to manipulate javascript?

Outdated jquery files have been left in the template designs and are being flagged, and probably demoted by Google algorithms.

Will we be seeing some new starter templates anytime soon to address these javascript file size problems?

[BenPleysier]

If you need to use the starter templates that utilise the frameworks, then you will also need to install all of the CSS and JS that goes along with it.

If you are a more proficient user, you will not need these starter templates. You would use the - let's call the framework by name - Bootstrap source files and only include those parts of the CSS and JS that are required for your project.

[osgood_ · Accepted solution]

Good question. Bootstrap default package regardless of whether its installed by DW or you go to the Bootstrap website itself and link it to your website is well known for being bloated.

DW is not likely to help you anytime in the near future to reduce the bloat found in any framework dependecy css, js file, they've already been minimalised.

Bootstrap v5, which is not yet available in DW, does however attempt to lessen the overload as that no longer depends on the jquery library. The js dependency files are written in vanilla javascript which makes them less heavy and l believe the css file has been cleaned up a bit.

I believe you can go to the Bootstap website and customize, compile a version of the framework which only uses the component js, css that you use but as l never use any framework l dont have an knowledge of whats possible and whats not using this approach.

To build the best, most streamlined website there is no other option but to code it yourself. Any default framework, plugin is full of redundant code that your website most probably doesnt need so my advice would be to reduce your dependecy on such workflows unless you dont care about bloat, then youre free to use what approach you find necessary to get the job done, which largely depends on your skill level.

Ive been in web development for a long time and lve never seen the industry quite in the mess it is at the moment due to the introduction of too many frameworks, plugins, automated worflows which all produce less than acceptable coding but the majority turn a blind eye simply because many believe these workflows are necessary to compete financially. Well they may be right but there is no denying quality, professionalism and pride in what is being produced is the victim.

[Nancy OShea]

Experienced developers create their own packages and leverage Bootstrap with Sass variables, Sass maps and mixins that fine tune your scripts to what's needed for that project.

https://getbootstrap.com/docs/4.0/getting-started/theming/

It's naive to think that any code editor can do all that for you because each developer and project varies.  Some people want everything in the kitchen sink while others don't.  DW's product engineers cannot anticipate every requirement so they provide you with various Starter Templates to use or not as you see fit.  But what you do with them is entirely your own choice.

Also Google doesn't give a hoot which frameworks or versions you use.  Google cares about content.

If you want to use the latest jQuery, download what you need from jQuery's CDN.  Ditto for Bootstrap.

• https://code.jquery.com/
• https://www.bootstrapcdn.com/